A floor in New York has an acceptable moisture content that is different from a hardwood floor in Florida. The range of acceptable wood floor moisture content will vary according to your specific location. No matter what subfloor is in place it is important that the moisture reading of the subfloor is no more than 3% off from the hardwood floor itself. Know the moisture content of each of these components and be certain they are within spec before the hardwood floor installation begins. Some radiant heat systems use a combination of gyp-crete and wood sleepers. You should take readings in all parts of the subfloor. Take frequent readings of the subfloor before the installation and delivery of the hardwood floor. Making sure your subfloor moisture readings are on point is of the utmost importance. If the surface temperature exceeds 85F, the wood may dry out more than it should and this can cause cracks. The surface temperature of the sub floor should never exceed 85F. This step should not be avoided regardless of the time of year.Īnother key step during installation is to measure the surface temperature of the sub floor and the hardwood floor. It will also show if there is any problem with the radiant heat system itself (like a water leak). This step will help drive out any moisture present in the subfloor. Radiant heat is considered a dry heat and if the heating season lasts for several months, a humidification system should be installed to keep the relative humidity above 30%.ĭuring the installation process one of the most important steps to take is to turn on the radiant heat system 1-2 weeks prior to the delivery of the wood. Also, talk to your customers about installing a humidifier either to add or remove humidity. That way they can slowly turn on the radiant heat system as the temperature gradually falls. It is in the customer’s best interest to have an outside thermometer/thermostat control the initiation of heat request. Explain to them that radiant heat systems need to be turned on gradually. The best way to combat this form of failure is to talk to your customer. This puts the hardwood floor into a form of “shock.” Users will crank up the heat when it gets cold. One of the most common reasons why radiant heat hardwood floors experience failure is because the system was turned on too high too fast. Communicate frequently with your customer about the best ways to maintain humidity and temperature. Once you’ve installed it the customer must be aware of all the ins and outs of the radiant heat system. Let the homeowner know that hardwood floors will work best when they maintain a relative humidity between 30-50% and an inside temperature of 60-80F.Īs a hardwood floor installer it is your responsibility to install the hardwood floor perfectly to the radiant heat system. You should communicate with the homeowner and let them know the best conditions for a stable hardwood floor over radiant heat. Different flooring materials possess different R values and if different materials are used in the same heat zone, check with the HVAC mechanical engineer. You should be aware of all flooring types being installed over the radiant heat system. If everyone cooperates then you are on your way to a successful install of your hardwood floor over a radiant heat system. Make sure everyone is aware that a hardwood floor will be installed over the radiant heat system. Talk to each person that is involved with installing the radiant heat system. It is also the responsibility of the general contractor, plumber, and HVAC systems professional to put care into the installation of a radiant heat system so that all flooring substrates perform well and look great for years. With radiant heat systems it’s not just the responsibility of the hardwood floor professional to be on top of their game.
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